#71 Be Wise about Bioplastics

If you have been looking for alternatives to single-use plastics, including for items such as bags and cups, you may have run across new products referred to as bioplastics which have been developed in response to this market demand. Some of these are considered compostable, because they are made from plant fibers or starches such as corn, potatoes, rice, wood cellulose, etc. However, it is important to check several things first: 1) make sure these items are certified compostable; 2) make sure your local recycling system includes industrial composting, which is necessary to process these items; and, if so, 3) separate them from your other recyclables. Products that are certified compostable either carry the Biodegradable Products Institute’s seal of approval or are listed on their website. Read more: https://www.bpiworld.org/

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Not all bioplastics are biodegradable (e.g. those used as car parts), thus it’s really important that we learn more about the plastic alternatives we use. It would be better if we find ways to stop using single-use plastics altogether.